Windstream begins work on Kentucky broadband stimulus project

Windstream (Nasdaq: WIN) has put the backhoe in the ground for its first broadband stimulus project in Shepherdsville, Ky., an upgrade of its existing network.

Windstream's East coast coverage

But it won't be the only project on tap for Kentucky: Having received $59.7 million in broadband grants through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), Windstream will invest almost $20 million in the state alone.

The Shepherdsville project, while larger than the broadband stimulus projects Windstream launched recently in Iowa and Mississippi, is still relatively small.

Set to be completed in February 2012 with new service available to customers in March, Windstream will upgrade its existing network with 40 route miles of new fiber in addition to associated electronic equipment (i.e. broadband loop carriers and DSLAMs).

To date, Windstream has received $181.3 million in broadband grants for projects in 13 states, including Kentucky.